Abstract
Current pandemic trapped humans in situ (temporarily), and, on a way, recontextualized human social spatiability and psychogeographic perception of space, adding layers of introspection and opportunities for regrowth. Public outdoor spaces became places of freedom and connection, and even artistic expression and dialog, teaching, and learning. In our time of ecological crisis, it is becoming increasingly important that everyone step up to make a contribution to create more just and more sustainable world. Through the overview of student public engagement artwork examples (from the Eco Art and Design class I created and teach to undergraduate non-art major students), this paper discusses how students created artistic dialog with park and beach visitors to address environmental issues, while using non-toxic and natural materials in creative process. The paper points out that the use of these art materials can be a transformative tool that re-connects humans with nature and create empathy toward non-human. Starting with analysis of how certain qualities of natural materials (e.g. smell and color, as well as texture of natural objects and materials, such as twigs, leaves, pebbles, mud, snow, and sand) can spark curiosity (lure human mind in), while their other qualities (such as ephemerality) can trigger the understanding of natural processes and cycles, this paper argues that the use of these materials in creation of art (especially ephemeral art in an outdoor setting) can influence both the art creator and the audience/art collaborators to think outside of the box, and thus trigger the change.
Presenters
Milena PopovFaculty, Media, Culture and Communication Dept. at Steinhardt, NYU and Art & Music Dept. and Environmental Justice and Sustainability Program at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY, New York University and The City University of New York, New York, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Public Art, Eco Art, Parks, Community Engagement, Transformation
Digital Media
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